Method development in forensic toxicology

Background: In the field of forensic toxicology, the quality of analytical methods is of great importance to ensure the reliability of results and to avoid unjustified legal consequences. A key to high quality analytical methods is a thorough method development. Methods: The presented article will provide an overview on the process of developing methods for forensic applications. Results: This includes the definition of the method’s purpose (e.g. qualitative vs quantitative) and the analytes to be included, choosing an appropriate sample matrix, setting up separation and detection systems as well as establishing a versatile sample preparation. Conclusion: Method development is concluded by an optimization process after which the new method is subject to method validation.